Many people just toss unwanted items into the garbage without a second thought. Yet, there's sometimes something in the closet that is too nice to throw out, but not nice enough to sell. When confronted with this situation, many people end up putting the item back into its rightful, dust-collecting space. But there is another option: freecycling.
The Freecycle network is an online organization that allows people to post unwanted items on the web site for "recycling." The only stipulation is that all items posted must be free.
The one aspect of freecycling most emphasized is that the process is about giving as well as getting. Deron Beal, who had the original idea for the Freecycle network, said that freecycle is a place where everyone can give and get equally. Beal and RISE, Inc., a non-profit organization, started the Freecycle network in Tucson, Ariz. in May 2003.
Members of a freecycling group can not only get rid of items but can also get someone else's unwanted items. If someone is looking to acquire a posted item, they simply respond directly to the posting. The giver then sets up a time when the person can come and pick up the item. Other arrangements can also be made.
Membership to the freecycle organization is free and easy. Anyone can join using www.freecycle.org or by going to www.yahoo.com and searching Yahoo Groups for their local freecycle group.
Freecycle consists of individual online groups that correspond to the city from which the group is based. Each local group is monitored by a volunteer moderator. Brenda Sullivan, moderator for the Storrs and Hebron groups, said she discovered the freecycle network and decided to start two local groups.
"I wanted a freecycle group in my own neighborhood," Sullivan said.
Sullivan said the democratic feeling that is present is important in the nature of local groups.
"You basically just set up the group and let the people do their thing," she said.
As moderator of the Storrs and Hebron freecycle groups, Sullivan must approve members by e-mail. She reported that so far no one has been denied membership.
"Most people want to give away rather than throw away," she said.
Many people and other non-profit organizations benefit from the Freecycle network. Some groups run on a first come, first serve basis. But others, including the Storrs group, allow givers to wait and see who responds to the postings. That way the person who needs the item most will get it.
"It just makes you feel good. ... It is nice to know that someone will benefit from your stuff," Sullivan said.
Another positive aspect of freecycle is that it is a great place to mingle with others.
"It's like a community, being in these groups.," Sullivan said. "You meet a lot of new people."
As for college students getting involved in freecycle, Beal encourages it.
"I think it's a natural fit," Deron said. "It's a great way to get stuff."
So the next time you come across something dust-covered in the closet, think about the old adage "one man's trash is another man's treasure." The Freecycle network can be an easy and fun alternative to the trash.
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